Republican Sen. Dave Thompson told the Star Tribune he isn't looking to collect more revenue, but feels the current policy is hurting Minnesota retailers, like Target and Best Buy. Supporters of an Internet sales tax argue online retail giants have an unfair price advantage right now.

Marketing researchers at the University of St. Thomas say stores are jumping into the holidays two weeks earlier than in recent years. Costco, Home Depot, Kal-Mart and Sears will make room on their shelves for Christmas merchandise by the end of the month.